STEUBENVILLE — One local resident has taken it upon him- or herself to announce they will be making an anonymous matching donation to the United Way of Jefferson County during its annual fundraising drive.

Executive Director Laura Rauch stated that an individual has stepped forward, asking to remain anonymous, stating they will match any new donation made to the nonprofit agency up to a maximum of $10,000.

“We are so grateful for this generous opportunity to have friends of the United Way care so deeply about our mission,” Rauch stated.

“Our donor is choosing to remain anonymous. All new gifts will be matched dollar for dollar up to $10,000,” she continued. “All of our donors are very much appreciated and we could not support our 11 local agencies without their generosity. We are so fortunate to have the support of our community.”

The nonprofit agency began its 2025 campaign during a breakfast meeting held during the Day of Action on Aug. 29.

Held at the Jeffco Event Center, officials announced their goal is to raise $325,000.

The United Way held its largest fundraiser of the year toward the campaign when it featured the annual Taste of Jefferson County event at St. Florian Hall on Oct. 9.

Rauch explained the fundraiser generates money which ultimately goes to support the United Way’s 11 member agencies.

These area nonprofit groups are continuously helping residents in need throughout the year, Rauch explained, noting they provide diverse services to individuals, such as abuse support, homelessness, food assistance, youth services, disaster relief and health matters.

Agencies include, A Caring Place, Child Advocacy Center; A Child’s Place CASA; ALIVE; Jefferson County Community Action Council; Smithfield Friends Church Food Pantry; W.E.B.A. Food Pantry; Toronto Services Committee; American Red Cross, Lake to River Chapter; Ohio Valley Youth Network and Sycamore Center; Family and Community Services, RSVP; and the Ohio Valley Health Center.

Anyone wanting to make a new donation to the United Way to assist officials in reaching their goal, which will be matched by the anonymous donor, can do so by either calling the agency at (740) 284-9000; in person at the United Way office, located at 511 N. Fourth St.; or by mail, sending a check to: The United Way of Jefferson County, P.O. Box 1463, Steubenville, OH 43952.